Dr. Shelby F. Thames and Dr. Jay Grimes have asked the Heroes of Katrina Committee to develop a process and procedure to recognize faculty and staff for their many contributions during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The Heroes of Katrina Committee consists of two representatives from Faculty Senate, Patsy Anderson and Dr. Myron Henry, two representatives from Staff Council, Valerie Horne and Tyia Brooks, and myself as chair.
Can't wait to hear the response from the community when all of the USM faculty "heroes" get recognized by the media, and possibly handed checks, etc.
I realize there is a committee formed, but would some of you care to describe what USM faculty did post-Katrina that was heroic? Include names and details if you could.
P. Op., I think you're reading the poster's comment, not the email itself.
You are quite right, LVN. Until we see a copy of the email and astertain the extent to which monetary reward might be involved, I'll modify my post to read "Does everything have to be about money?" Thank you kindly.
Here's the full text of the emai in question: ---------------------------------------------- Dear Southern Miss Family,
Dr. Shelby F. Thames and Dr. Jay Grimes have asked the Heroes of Katrina Committee to develop a process and procedure to recognize faculty and staff for their many contributions during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The Heroes of Katrina Committee consists of two representatives from Faculty Senate, Patsy Anderson and Dr. Myron Henry, two representatives from Staff Council, Valerie Horne and Tyia Brooks, and myself as chair. All faculty and staff, regardless of location, are eligible and nomination may be made through self or others. If you know of someone who should be recognized, please submit the Nomination Form (found online at http://www.usm.edu/about/Heroes-of-Katrina-FORM.pdf) by February 17 to Tyia Brooks, Office of Financial Aid, Gulf Coast Student Service Center, Box #5128 or e-mail as an attachment to Tyia.Brooks@usm.edu.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this important and most worthy recognition.
I really am curious about the qualifications for a Heroes of Katrina Award.
I am aware that the USMPD and the USM Physical Plant did the lion's share of the work in helping get the campus ready to open and that faculty and staff worked in more localized areas as well. Does this type of work make one a Hero? I rather doubt it.
The only people who should receive Hero designation are those whose actions directly saved lives. Rounding up food, clothing, medical, and other supplies isn't really heroic--it's compassionate.
I wonder if this isn't some sort of way to back-door Shelby a Hero Award.
The only people who should receive Hero designation are those whose actions directly saved lives. Rounding up food, clothing, medical, and other supplies isn't really heroic--it's compassionate.
As Shepard Smith pointed out on FOX news, a substantial portion of that work was done by faith-based organizations. Churches from hundreds of miles away sent many volunteers, and vans containing essential supplies to help with the clean-up, food-distribution, and other functions. Those who couldn't come in person provided $$$. The participants with whom I am acquained certainly don't expect a medal or other recognition. Helping is a part of their life-style.